County residents will benefit from the law enforcement training and skills of four new Michigan State Police troopers. The new officers are graduates of the 126th Trooper Recruit School and have been assigned to the MSP Lakeview Post, which serves Ionia, Montcalm and Gratiot counties.

Governor Rick Snyder served as the keynote speaker at the afternoon ceremony. Schutter, who was elected Class Orator by his fellow recruits, spoke on behalf of the graduating class.

"Michigan is committed to public safety and I am confident that the graduates of the Michigan State Police 126th Trooper Recruit School will uphold the highest standards as they protect our families," Snyder said. "We're proud to salute our newest troopers and thank them for their courage, dedication and professionalism. We wish them all long, safe and fulfilling careers in the service of our great state."

New this year, as part of the department's commitment to "Providing Service With A Purpose," the recruits participated in community outreach projects with the Boys and Girls Club of Lansing and at a YMCA camp in Williamston.

To be selected to attend the academy, applicants had to pass a stringent selection process that included a physical fitness test, background investigation and hiring interview.